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  • MIL-Evening Report: Stoneflies change colour in response to deforestation, suggesting humans can alter evolution – new research

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jonathan Waters, Professor of Zoology, University of Otago

    Author provided, CC BY-SA

    As we continue to change the planet, scientists are worried we might also be altering the evolutionary trajectories of the species that live alongside us, perhaps even including some irreversible shifts.

    Certainly, the evidence for change is everywhere. As the planet warms, species’ ranges are shifting and their life cycles are changing. As we harvest the largest fish in the ocean, the species affected are now maturing at smaller sizes.

    But are these shifts we observe in wild populations underpinned by genetic changes (mutations in the DNA) or are they simply flexible responses to environmental change? If the changes are genetic, how are they happening?

    So far, researchers have observed fewer clear-cut examples of human-induced evolution in the wild than one might imagine. But our new study may provide a new “textbook” case of human-driven evolution in wild insects.

    Our findings are centred on an intriguing case of “mimicry” from New Zealand, in which a harmless insect has evolved to mimic the warning colours of a highly toxic species.

    Forest removal drives colour shift

    Convincingly demonstrating “evolution in action” involves finding the agents of natural selection (environmental factors driving the change) and discovering the genetic mechanism.

    Until now, the peppered moth was the “classic” example of human-driven evolution. Dark-coloured specimens of the moth suddenly appeared during the 19th century. It was a likely response to industrial pollution which meant light-coloured individuals were no longer blending in to the increasingly sooty British environment. Despite its broad appeal, some aspects of even this famous case have been criticised as unclear and anecdotal.

    We worked on stoneflies and the impact of deforestation.

    The black stonefly Austroperla lives in forests. It produces cyanide to deter potential predators, and to advertise its toxicity this species has high-contrast black, white and yellow markings, reminiscent of wasp colouration.

    The non-toxic Zelandoperla stonefly has evolved astonishingly similar warning colouration, apparently to trick predators (forest birds) into assuming that it, too, is toxic. The intricate and unique ecological interactions between these insects and their predators have apparently evolved together over millions of years.

    Dark coloured Zelandoperla stoneflies (middle) mimic the poisonous Austroperla (top), which are abundant in forests. Recent forest clearance has eliminated Austroperla from many regions of New Zealand. In response, Zelandoperla populations have quickly evolved lighter colouration (bottom).
    Graham McCulloch, Jon Waters, CC BY-SA

    Where do humans come into this story? Aotearoa New Zealand was the last major landmass to be colonised by people. In many places the human impacts on its ecosystems have been devastating.

    In addition to species extinctions, New Zealand has lost much of its original native forest cover in just a few centuries. This deforestation has wiped out countless populations of forest birds, along with the poisonous, forest-dependent Austroperla.

    Our study reveals this widespread deforestation has also proven a game changer for the stonefly “mimic”. As its predators and the poisonous species it mimics have vanished from many regions, there is no longer much point in displaying warning colouration.

    In an astonishing about-turn, Zelandoperla populations from deforested habitats have quickly lost their spectacular “mimic” colouration. It turns out that the production of this intricate colouration was costly, and when no longer essential, evolution rapidly removed it – in a case of “use it or lose it”.

    Human-driven deforestation in New Zealand has altered species interactions in a mimicry system, leading to rapid evolution of insect colour.
    Graham McCulloch, Jon Waters, CC BY-SA

    Genetic change

    In our study, we compared insect populations across several parts of the South Island. We found a remarkably consistent picture. The removal of forest has driven similar colour shifts across different deforested regions.

    The finding that evolutionary change can be “predictable” offers hope that scientists can use evolutionary theory to predict future biodiversity shifts.

    Stonefly models helped to reveal the role of birds.
    Author provided, CC BY-SA

    How do we know birds have played a key role in this rapid colour change? By placing stonefly models of different colours in a variety of habitats, we were able to demonstrate that birds only avoid attacking stoneflies with the “warning” colouration when they are in forests.

    Another challenge was to show that this colour change represents evolution at the DNA level rather than a flexible response to environmental change. We looked at genetic variation across the Zelandoperla genome and found that just a single gene – ebony – is almost completely responsible for this colour evolution.

    Our study also reveals the pace of evolutionary change. By comparing regions deforested soon after human arrival (for example Central Otago, which was deforested around 600 to 700 years ago) with those cleared much more recently (Otago Peninsula, 150 years ago), we show that evolution has proceeded steadily yet inexorably over this human timeframe.

    On the positive side, the finding that at least some of our native species can adapt in the face of rapid environmental change suggests ongoing resilience of our native biodiversity. However, our results also highlight how quickly the intricate interactions that have evolved among native species over millennia can be lost from disturbed ecosystems.

    These new findings raise tantalising questions about the potential to reverse the negative impacts of deforestation on our native biodiversity. In particular, our increasing focus on reforestation and ecological restoration provides hope for restoring the complex ecosystems we have inherited.

    Jonathan Waters receives funding from the RSNZ Marsden Fund.

    Graham McCulloch receives funding from the RSNZ Marsden Fund

    – ref. Stoneflies change colour in response to deforestation, suggesting humans can alter evolution – new research – https://theconversation.com/stoneflies-change-colour-in-response-to-deforestation-suggesting-humans-can-alter-evolution-new-research-242008

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Speaking notes for the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship: Government of Canada reduces immigration

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Speech

    Check against delivery. This speech has been translated in accordance with the Government of Canada’s official languages policy and edited for posting and distribution in accordance with its communications policy.

    Speech was delivered on October 24, 2024 in Ottawa, Ontario.

    Bonjour tout le monde. Good morning. Thank you for being here today.

    I’ll begin by acknowledging that we are gathering on the traditional and unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg People.

    I’d like to acknowledge the Prime Minister, and my colleagues for being here today.

    Immigration is essential for our country’s economy and accounts for almost 100% of Canada’s labour force growth. In response to the global pandemic and labour shortages, we brought in temporary measures to attract some of the world’s best and brightest to study and work in Canada, which supported the urgent needs of businesses.

    The plan worked by helping our economy navigate a challenging period and recover more quickly.

    Since then, our economy and the world have changed. While we see signs of improvement, families and communities across the country continue to face challenges.

    The pressures on housing and social services require a more sustainable approach to welcoming newcomers. It is also clear that Canadians want the federal government to better manage the immigration system.

    For the first time, the Immigration Levels Plan includes targets for temporary residents, such as international students and temporary foreign workers, as well as for permanent residents. This more comprehensive approach to welcoming newcomers will help preserve the integrity of our immigration system, respond to the needs and challenges of communities, and set up newcomers for success by having adequate resources to support them.

    Temporary Resident Programs

    Over the last two years, 60% of all newcomers were temporary residents, including international students, temporary workers, and some arriving through humanitarian programs.

    This fast growth resulted in Canadians and newcomers facing challenges and integrity issues that we have already begun to address.

    Today’s plan fulfills the commitment I made earlier this year: to reduce volumes of temporary residents coming and staying in Canada.

    This brings temporary resident planning in line with permanent resident programs, providing greater predictability and transparency to our immigration system.

    For international students, we worked with partners to

    • implement a cap on international students
    • tighten controls on study permits, including the requirement for provincial attestation letters
    • limit access to work permits for graduates – including private-public partnerships that were driving up program admissions

    The changes have worked: in the first nine months of the year, we had fewer international students coming to Canada – down 43% compared to 2023. The result is that local communities face lower rental prices in parts of the country that saw large numbers of students in recent years, and international students are receiving better services and support. For example, in Vancouver, one- and two-bedroom apartment rental prices are down more than 10%, and Toronto over 8%.

    With my colleague, Minister Boissonnault, the government ended temporary pandemic measures regarding the Temporary Foreign Worker Program by bringing in restrictions and controls to limit access for companies employing low-wage workers.

    These changes will help our partners, including provinces, territories and municipalities, align their capacities and allow populations to grow at a more sustainable pace as we encourage institutions to do their part in better welcoming newcomers.

    Our plan reaffirms the government’s commitment to reduce non‑permanent resident volumes to 5% of Canada’s population by the end of 2026.

    With these reduction measures, Canada’s temporary population will decrease over the next few years as significantly more temporary residents will transition to permanent residents or leave Canada compared to new ones arriving. Specifically, compared to each previous year, we will see Canada’s temporary population decline by

    • 445,901 in 2025
    • 445,662 in 2026
    • a modest increase of 17,439 in 2027

    Our actions to-date and levels plan for 2025 will mean that the number of newcomers will decrease over the next few years because significantly more temporary residents will leave Canada compared to those new arrivals.

    Permanent Resident Programs

    It’s clear that our country still needs newcomers to help grow our economy, fill skills and labour gaps, and address challenges like building new homes and providing quality health care.

    With our aging population and people living longer, we need more workers to support important social programs like health care, public pensions and infrastructure.

    But we see the pressures facing our country and are adapting our policies so that Canadians and newcomers alike have access to the quality jobs, homes, and support they need to thrive.

    We have listened to Canadians. That is why we are adjusting the plan and reducing our permanent resident targets. The plan focuses on attracting skilled workers, helping reunite families, and resettling refugees.

    Canada will reduce its permanent immigration targets to align with our economic needs

    • from 500,000 down to 395,000 in 2025;
    • from 500,000 to 380,000 in 2026; and
    • setting a target of 365,000 in 2027.

    These lower permanent resident targets are expected to reduce the housing supply gap by about 670,000 units by the end of 2027.

    We will prioritize permanent resident spots for temporary residents like international students or temporary workers who are already in Canada, by facilitating their transition.

    This means over 40% of permanent residents will come from temporary residents that are already in Canada. These skilled, educated newcomers can continue to support the workforce and economy, without placing additional demands on our social services. Newcomers with experience in Canada show greater long-term success.

    Adjustments will be made to our economic immigration streams to prioritize the transition of workers already here to permanent residence and to be responsive to labour market needs – our In‑Canada Focus. We will put emphasis on our federal economic priorities in programs including provincial nominee programs, the Canadian Experience Class, and regional immigration programs to attract the workers we need such as those in health care and trades occupations.

    Canadians are proud of our country’s reputation as a leader in refugee resettlement. While our refugee resettlement targets are reduced as a result of overall reductions, our commitment to some of the world’s most vulnerable people remains.

    We also understand the importance of reuniting families and loved ones, including spouses, children, parents, and grandparents. That’s why we are continuing to allocate almost 24% of our overall permanent resident admissions to family immigration in 2025.

    And we continue to strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec. We will target nearly 30,000 French-speaking newcomers in 2025, representing over 8.5% of total admissions, rising to 9.5% in 2026, and 10% of newcomers in 2027.

    This means that despite the decrease in overall PR targets, the number of Francophone newcomers that we hope to settle outside Quebec will continue to increase year over year. This will help support our plan to restore the demographic weight of Francophone communities outside of Quebec.

    Regularization

    Regarding undocumented individuals in Canada, we have been clear that a broad program would not be pursued. However, we will set a small number of admissions for individuals that would be regularized through an initiative focused on those that worked in essential service industries.

    Conclusion

    I want Canadians to know we are listening. We’re aware of our country’s current challenges and are stepping up to address Canada’s evolving needs.

    Our immigration plan will support our economy while responding to the pressures that families and communities are facing today.

    Canada’s immigration plan for the next three years will pause our population growth in the short term to maintain well‑managed and sustainable growth for the long term.

    Our changes over the last year are working. Today’s plan will build on our support for communities and employers while upholding our humanitarian commitments and Canadian values.

    We will pause growth from immigration for two years. It will allow us to get back on pre-pandemic population growth trajectory by 2027 so that over the long term we can continue to grow our economic and social prosperity through immigration.

    We are making immigration work and leveraging our existing programs so that everyone has access to the quality jobs, homes, and supports they need. We are supporting newcomers’ integration and giving them a fair shot in Canada.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 1206 2CC Breakfast with Stephen Cenatiempo

    Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements

    STEPHEN CENATIEMPO: All right. I want to talk federal politics a little bit further. We’re joined by Kristy McBain, the Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government and the Member for Eden-Monaro. Kristy, good morning. 

    KRISTY MCBAIN: Good morning Stephen. 

    CENATIEMPO: Now I’m going to leave you out of the energy debate for the moment because it’s not your portfolio, but something in the time that you and I have been talking, you’ve been very critical of the previous government and what the current government likes to call rorts, whether it’s sports rorts, car park rorts, all of this. Well, it now turns out you guys are just as bad because the Housing Support Program is pouring money into Labor electorates and marginal electorates that you’re trying to pick up. Pot calling the kettle black, much? 

    MCBAIN: Our Housing Support Program Stream One has been announced, which is for a range of assistance to councils to help them with planning. Stream Two is not yet announced, which is the enabling infrastructure that will help build the water and sewer connections, the roads, kerbs and guttering to get more housing underway. It’s really important that enabling infrastructure is taken off councils that may have to do it themselves if they own the land. Developers are saying, if we did all of that, the blocks become too expensive and nothing will get built. We’re contributing in a number of ways to make sure that housing is more affordable for Australians out there, whether it’s through enabling infrastructure, whether it’s through the Housing Australia Future Fund.

    CENATIEMPO: Kristy, that’s not the argument here. The argument is that it’s going into like key Labor electorates, and Coalition seats that you’re targeting, exactly like car park and sports rorts. 

    MCBAIN: I haven’t seen any of those reports. The decisions have been made by the department, not by Ministers. It is important that we deal with what’s in front of us, and that’s transparency. If it’s been made by the department, it’s been made by the department. We’ve gone through round one of the Growing Regions Fund, which was audited in real time. Those projects were found to stack up to the guidelines. They were across a range of electorates. We’ve been walking the talk and saying, this is what we’re going to be, as transparent as possible as the decisions are made by the department. That’s what they are.

    CENATIEMPO: Except for the Housing Support Fund. All right, let’s talk housing while we’re at it. You’ve hit out a Bridget McKenzie for saying the Commonwealth shouldn’t fund housing. Well, the reality is, the Commonwealth’s not going to fund housing. You’re funding around the edges, which is exactly what the Opposition is saying we should do with their $5 billion package. 

    MCBAIN: What I found quite extraordinary about Bridget McKenzie’s comments was that she said we shouldn’t fund housing in regional areas. That we need to get out of the way and let developers get on with the job. If Bridget paid any attention to the debate that was happening in the Senate, she would know that’s exactly what we’re doing. The Commonwealth Government doesn’t have a construction arm. What we’re doing is making sure we make it easier for people to get on with developments. They say imitation is the best form of flattery. It’s nice to see the Coalition get on now and say we’re actually going to contribute to the housing debate and copy our Housing Support Program.

    CENATIEMPO: Well, it’s not copying. Let’s be fair dinkum about it, it’s not copying.

    MCBAIN: It is. It’s funding enabling infrastructure, which is exactly what we’re doing. I think that’s fantastic. It’s really important that we’ve got major parties interested in housing, and that’s a big change from the ten years that they were in government. What we would like them to do is not only talk with us about enabling infrastructure, but also talk with us about the Help to Buy program, or the Build to Rent program. We know we need to start helping in all different facets of home ownership, whether that’s renting, whether that’s buying, whether that’s trying to enable more blocks to get out on the market. It’s really important that we’re making a difference. The three levels of government need to be working together on this. That’s been the change over the last couple of years. There is a real focus now on housing from three levels of government. 

    CENATIEMPO: Now, I don’t think we’ve seen any results of that yet. Let’s talk about things closer to home in Bungendore. A flood mitigation program. Tell us about this?

    MCBAIN: Right across the country we saw some catastrophic flooding in 2022. We provided $40 million towards the New South Wales Flood Recovery and Resilience Grant program. Under round two of this, more than $4.6 million is being invested across New South Wales, to deal with flood mitigation projects. $2.2 million is going to Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council to construct an overflow channel over Turallo Creek in Bungendore. It will allow the flood waters to bypass Tarago Road bridge instead of crossing that and flooding it, during times of heavy rain. I’m really proud to be able to deliver this, because the community has long called for this. We know we need to do more in making our communities more resilient come those heavy weather events. This is just another way that we’re helping New South Wales deliver those resilient programs. It builds on last year’s allocation of over $20 million, which went to 19 projects across New South Wales. Really proud that the community is finally getting a long called for a piece of infrastructure, that will allow them to still cross the road during heavy weather. 

    CENATIEMPO: Now local communities are going to be asked to help identify potential locations for the next round of the Mobile Black Spots Program. Why do we need to do this? Why aren’t local Members already aware of where their black spots are? 

    MCBAIN: We do this all the time with communities. Councils call for community input for black spots all the time, and are constantly updating the telcos with these. I ran a survey last time, which identified a range of different black spots, and we contribute to it as well as community members. It’s really important, particularly as we see the development of more housing blocks, that we make sure that connectivity is still front of mind, particularly when we’re developing more rural areas. It is really important that we continue to update that as we head towards round eight of the Mobile Black Spot Program, which will close later this year. It’s just another way you integrate with your community and understand what’s happening. 

    CENATIEMPO: All right. Again, I think if a local Member is doing their job well enough, they should know where the black spots are in their electorates. But Kristy, always good to talk to you. We’ll catch up in a couple of weeks’ time. 

    MCBAIN: Sounds great. Thanks.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Admits Role in Smuggling and Labor Trafficking Scheme

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARIA DEL CARMEN SANCHEZ POTRERO, also known as Maria Carmela Sanchez, 73, a citizen of Mexico last residing in Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to a charge stemming from her involvement in a scheme to smuggle aliens into the U.S., harbor them at Hartford area residences, force them to work, and threaten to harm them in various ways if they failed to pay exorbitant fees, interest, and other living expenses.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning in September 2022, the FBI and Hartford Police interviewed several Mexican nationals who disclosed that they were smuggled from Mexico into the U.S. and transported to Hartford.  The investigation revealed that victims typically arranged with Sanchez, her co-conspirators in Connecticut, and associates in Mexico to cross the border into the U.S. in exchange for a fee of between $15,000 and $20,000 that each would need to pay once they were in the U.S.  In most cases, the victims were required to turn over a property deed as collateral before leaving Mexico.  They were then smuggled across the border and transported to Hartford area residences, including Sanchez’s residence on Madison Street in Hartford, often at a substantial risk of bodily injury or death.

    After the victims arrived in Connecticut, they were told that they would have to pay $30,000, with interest, and that they would have to pay Sanchez and her co-coconspirators for rent, food, gas and utilities.  Sanchez and her co-conspirators created false documents for the victims, including Permanent Residence cards and Social Security cards, and helped the victims find employment in the Hartford area.  In addition to their own jobs, some victims were required to perform housework and yardwork without compensation and without having their debt reduced.

    Victims were rarely provided with an accounting of their debt.  If victims failed to make regular payments, or in amounts that Sanchez and her co-conspirators expected, they were sometimes threatened, including with threats to harm family members in Mexico, to take property in Mexico that had been secured as collateral, to reveal victims’ immigration status to U.S. authorities, and to raise their interest payments.

    To date, investigators have identified 18 victims of this scheme.

    Sanchez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to encourage and induce, bring in, transport, and harbor aliens, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.  Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for January 16, 2025.

    As part of her plea agreement, Sanchez has agreed to a restitution order of $494,608.

    Sanchez has been detained since her arrest on March 1, 2023.

    This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Hartford Police Department, U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Angel Krull and Shan Patel.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: City Man Sentenced to 12½ Years in Prison for 2022 Armed Robbery of Northeast Philadelphia Store

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Nafec Pressley, 28, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Kai N. Scott to 150 months in prison and five years of supervised release for the armed robbery of a store in the city’s Northeast in late 2022.

    Pressley was indicted in March 2023 on one count of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He pleaded guilty to those charges this July.

    On November 20, 2022, at approximately 4:15 p.m., a male employee was waiting on several customers inside a dollar store on the 6900 block of Bustleton Avenue. After the last customer left, Pressley approached the counter and engaged in small talk with the employee. The defendant suddenly walked around the counter, brandished a black semiautomatic pistol, and demanded money from him. The victim opened the cash register and invited Pressley to take the money inside, which amounted to over $300. Pressley pocketed the cash, then demanded that the victim take him upstairs to get more money.

    The victim pleaded with Pressley to leave, finding some more cash by the counter, which he gave to Pressley. When the victim’s wife began to come down the steps from the second floor, Pressley aimed his gun at her, and then back at the male victim. Pressley told the man that he had five seconds to go upstairs and get more money and began to count backwards from five.

    The victim then grabbed his own firearm from behind the counter and he and Pressley exchanged gunfire. Pressley was shot numerous times throughout his body, knocking him backwards and onto the floor. The defendant discharged his pistol multiple times as he fell but did not strike the victim. Pressley ran to the back of the store, then made a dash for the front door. As he fled, he turned and fired at the victim, again missing him.

    A short time later, Pressley was dropped off at an area hospital where he was treated for gunshot wounds. Philadelphia police officers who responded to the hospital seized Pressley’s clothing, finding approximately $371 in cash in his pants pocket.

    “Nafec Pressley nearly got himself killed because he’d rather steal money than work for it,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “He’s extremely fortunate he didn’t kill anyone else when he opened fire in that store. My office and our partners at ATF and the Philadelphia Police Department are committed to protecting the public from these violent criminals who prey on others. With Mr. Pressley behind bars for the next decade-plus, our stores, streets, and city are safer.”

    “We will not let violent criminals like Nafec Pressley terrorize Philadelphia’s businesses and communities,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Philadelphia Field Division. “In this robbery turned shootout it was only by good fortune no one was killed. ATF Philadelphia Field Division has a long history of partnership with the Philadelphia Police Department and U.S. Attorney’s Office, and we will continue to work tirelessly together to ensure justice for the victims and to make our communities safer.”

    The case was investigated by the Philadelphia Police Department and the ATF and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. Zaleski.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Spartanburg Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Second Federal Cocaine Trafficking Conviction

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    SPARTANBURG, S.C. —Maurice Suber, 39, of Spartanburg was sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute cocaine.

    Evidence presented to the court showed that since at least 2022, Suber was distributing drugs in the Highlands area of Spartanburg. On Nov. 15, 2023, a search warrant was executed on Suber’s home and multiple firearms and cash were located. Suber had previously been sentenced for conspiracy to distribute cocaine in the same federal courthouse.

    United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins sentenced Suber to 141 months in federal prison, followed by a court ordered term of supervision. The court also entered an order of forfeiture for $3.8 million dollars. 

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Border Enforcement Security Task Force – Upstate South Carolina, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and Greenville County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie Schoen is prosecuting the case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detroit Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun Crime

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Tristian Gerrell-Robert Murphy, 35, of Detroit, Michigan, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 10, 2024, Murphy possessed a Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard .380-caliber pistol, found under the driver seat of a vehicle he operated, and a Taurus 9mm pistol found in the trunk in St. Albans. Both firearms were loaded.

    Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Murphy knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony conviction for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery in United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan on October 21, 2021.

    Murphy is scheduled to be sentenced on February 13, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

    United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the St. Albans Police Department and the assistance provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

    United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney JC MacCallum is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-101.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update 256 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) lost the connection to its only remaining 330 kilovolt (kV) back-up power line for a second time this month, once again leaving the facility dependent on one single source of the external electricity it needs for reactor cooling and other key nuclear safety and security functions, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    The IAEA team stationed at the plant was informed that the power line was disconnected for more than 26 hours between Monday and Tuesday this week due to unspecified damage on the other side of the Dnipro River. It took place three weeks after another disconnection of the same line. In both instances, the ZNPP continued to receive electricity from its sole 750 kV line. Before the military conflict, Europe’s largest nuclear power plant (NPP) had four 750 kV and six 330 kV lines available.

    “What once would have been unthinkable – a major nuclear power plant suffering repeated off-site power cuts – has become a frequent occurrence during this devastating war. The situation is clearly not getting any better in this regard. The nuclear safety and security situation at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant remains highly precarious,” Director General Grossi said.

    Underlining the persistent risks, the IAEA team has continued to hear explosions every day over the past week, although no damage to the ZNPP was reported.

    The IAEA team members conducted walkdowns across the site as part of their activities to assess nuclear safety and security at the plant, including observing the testing of an emergency diesel generator (EDG) of reactor unit 4. In meetings with plant staff, they discussed other important topics, such as the modernization of control systems for the site’s EDGs as well as updated procedures related to the ZNPP’s radiation protection programme.

    As a follow up to their visit last week to the cooling tower damaged by a major fire in August, the team members also discussed with the ZNPP how it will assess the extent of the damage, including the selection of an external contractor to carry out this work.

    The IAEA teams present at the Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine NPPs and the Chornobyl site reported that nuclear safety and security is being maintained despite the effects of the ongoing conflict, including air raid alarms for several days over the past week.

    At the South Ukraine NPP, the IAEA team was informed that reactor unit 1 was disconnected from the grid for about four hours on Tuesday evening due to a spurious signal to the unit’s protection systems without the reactor safety systems being activated. The root cause of the event is being investigated. The reactor – one of three at the plant – is again generating power for the grid.

    At the request of Ukraine, an IAEA team is visiting six electrical substations in Ukraine this week, as part of the Agency’s work to assess the status of the electrical grid infrastructure essential to nuclear safety that began in September. During the visits, the team reviews the operational consequences of actual and potential damage to substations which supply off-site power to the country’s NPPs.  

    Reliable access to off-site power is one of the Seven Indispensable Pillars for ensuring nuclear safety and security during an armed conflict outlined by Director General Grossi two and a half years ago. The safety of operating NPPs is dependent on a stable grid connection, but the situation in this regard has become increasingly precarious in recent months.

    The IAEA already has teams of staff stationed at all of Ukraine’s NPPs who contribute to maintaining nuclear safety and security during the military conflict.

    The IAEA is continuing to implement its comprehensive programme of assistance in support of nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, including by delivering requested equipment. This week, two spectrometry systems enhancing the analytical capabilities of the hydrometeorological organizations of the Ukraine’s State Emergency Service were procured and delivered, funded by Switzerland. It was the 71st equipment delivery to Ukraine, totaling over 12.1 million euro since the start of the armed conflict.

    In addition, the Agency has coordinated the delivery of the two static test benches from the Rivne NPP to the supplier for repair during an outage of reactor unit 2. The repair was funded by Norway. The repair should be completed by the end of April next year, when the repaired test benches will be returned to the plant to enable the unit’s restart. The equipment is used in the nuclear and other industries to stress test components, including hydraulic shock absorbers.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: PEL 83 Second Exploration Campaign Commencement of Operations – Spud of Mopane 1-A Well

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sintana Energy Inc. (TSX-V: SEI, OTCQB: SEUSF) (“Sintana” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide the following update regarding a second exploration and appraisal campaign on blocks 2813A and 2814B located in the heart of Namibia’s Orange Basin, emerging as one of the world’s most prospective oil and gas regions. The blocks are governed by Petroleum Exploration License 83 (“PEL 83”) which is operated by a subsidiary of Galp Energia (“Galp”) of Portugal. Sintana maintains an indirect 49% interest in Custos Energy (Pty) Ltd. (“Custos”), which in turn owns a 10% working interest owner in PEL 83. NAMCOR, the National Petroleum Company of Namibia, also maintains a 10% working interest.

    The drill ship Santorini has arrived on location and operations associated with the Mopane 1-A well have commenced. Specifically, the Mopane 1-A was spud 23:30 local time on October 23rd.

    This appraisal well is the first of an up to four well program potentially consisting of two exploration wells and two appraisal wells. This second campaign on PEL 83 is predicated on providing additional insights into the scope and quality of the Mopane complex.

    We refer to press releases from Galp (available at galp.com) and Custos (available at newsdirect.com) throughout Q1 and Q2 of 2024, noting that an inaugural two well exploration campaign that commenced in Q4 2023 resulted in multiple discoveries of significant columns of light oil in high-quality reservoir sands providing for an initial estimate of original oil in place (“OOIP”) of 10 billion barrels of oil equivalent. A drill stem test was also conducted resulting in an infrastructure constrained flow of 14,000 boe/d.

    Initial analysis suggests the reservoirs have good porosities, high pressures and high permeabilities in large hydrocarbon columns with very low oil viscosity, and no CO2 nor H2S. The flows achieved during the well test have reached the maximum allowed limits, positioning Mopane as, potentially, an important commercial discovery. 

    “We look forward to the continuing progress on PEL 83, further unveiling of the potential and quality of the Mopane complex. These efforts should provide additional insights into this world class opportunity and into our broader Orange Basin portfolio located at the heart of this emerging hydrocarbon province.” said Robert Bose, Chief Executive Officer of Sintana.

    ABOUT SINTANA ENERGY:

    The Company is engaged in petroleum and natural gas exploration and development activities on five large, highly prospective, onshore and offshore petroleum exploration licenses in Namibia, and in Colombia’s Magdalena Basin.

    On behalf of Sintana Energy Inc.,
    “A. Robert Bose”
    Chief Executive Officer

    For additional information or to sign-up to receive periodic updates about Sintana’s projects, and corporate activities, please visit the Company’s website at www.sintanaenergy.com

    Corporate Contacts:   Investor Relations Advisor:
    Robert Bose Sean J. Austin Jonathan Paterson
    Chief Executive Officer Vice-President Founder & Managing Partner
    212-201-4125 713-825-9591 Harbor Access
        475-477-9401
         

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain information in this release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intensions for the future, and include, but not limited to, statements with respect to potential future farmout agreements on PEL 83 and/or PEL 87, and proposed future exploration and development activities on PEL 83 and/or PEL 90 and neighbouring properties, as well as the prospective nature of the Company’s property interests. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements, including, but not limited to risks relating to the receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals, results of exploration and development activities, the ability to source joint venture partners and fund exploration, permitting and government approvals, and other risks identified in the Company’s public disclosure documents from time to time. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no obligation to update such information, except as may be required by law.

    NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: 
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ca79be82-d8c9-4894-be4d-1acfbcc48be3

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 4667, Risky Research Review Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 4667 would establish the Life Sciences Research Security Board as an independent executive branch agency to review and approve federal funding requests for what is termed high-risk life sciences research, which involves pathogens that are particularly dangerous to humans. The board’s members would be appointed by the President and subject to Senate confirmation.

    S. 4667 would require the board to receive funding proposals from federal agencies for projects or grant programs at least 30 days before a project or program is funded. Within 120 days, board members would be required to determine whether a proposal involves high‑risk life sciences research and, if so, whether the project requires biosafety controls to proceed. The board also could review and audit research projects using federal funds awarded before the bill’s enactment and could direct such funding to be suspended. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Intersection of Legislative Drafting and Federal Budgeting

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    This presentation provides an overview of major legislative developments that have affected the federal budget process. Also discussed are scorekeeping (the process for developing and recording measures of the budgetary effects of proposed and enacted legislation) and some of the principles that guide the scorekeeping process.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 4656, a bill to amend title 5, United State Code, concerning restrictions on the participation of certain Federal employees in partisan political activity, and for other purposes

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 4656 would amend the Hatch Act, which limits certain political activities of federal employees. Under current law, most employees of the executive branch (referred to as “less restricted employees”) are allowed to participate in political management and campaign activities while off duty, as long as they are outside of federal facilities and do not use federal property. The bill would add employees of any Office of Inspector General or Office of Special Inspector General to the list of federal employees prohibited from participating in political management or campaigns (referred to as “further restricted employees”). Such prohibited activities include running for office, volunteering in any campaign, fundraising, or registering voters for a political party.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 6826, a bill to designate the visitor and education center at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine as the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H. R. 6826 would designate the visitor and education center at the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore, Maryland, as the “Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.” Based on the cost of similar activities, CBO estimates that updating maps, informational material, and signage would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2029 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 4651, SAFE Supply Chains Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 4651 would stipulate that federal agencies can only procure and use information and communication technology from original manufacturers or authorized resellers. Under the bill, agencies would need to develop guidance to help entities that would otherwise be ineligible become authorized resellers. The bill would allow the Office of Management and Budget to waive that procurement requirement but would require it to report annually to the Congress on any waivers granted.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shapiro Administration Recognizes Winners of Pennsylvania School Bus Safety Poster Contest, Driving Competition

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 23, 2024 – Harrisburg, PA

    Shapiro Administration Recognizes Winners of Pennsylvania School Bus Safety Poster Contest, Driving Competition

    During a ceremony at the State Museum of Pennsylvania, officials from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania State Police, along with school bus safety advocates, honored ten students in kindergarten through eight grade for their school bus safety posters and three school bus drivers for their superior driving skills. The theme for this year’s contest was “Driving Safety into the Future.

    The ceremony highlighted the Shapiro Administration’s efforts to enhance Pennsylvanians’ safety, including a proclamation by Governor Shapiro naming Oct. 21-25 School Bus Safety Week in Pennsylvania in conjunction with the federal observance. The week focuses on saving young lives by raising awareness of the daily challenges faced by students being transported throughout the commonwealth.

    “The opening of school for another year means the return of school buses to our roads, and the Shapiro Administration is focused on everyone getting to school and back home safely,” said PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services Deputy Secretary Kara Templeton. “School Bus Safety Week gives everyone a reason to pause and realize just how much our own actions behind the wheel can affect innocent young lives.”

    Speakers in Order:
    Kara Templeton – Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services, PennDOT
    Corporal Zeina Black – School Bus Safety Division Supervisor for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Division, Bureau of Patrol, PSP
    Aaron Sepkowski – President, Pennsylvania Bus Association

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lt. Gov. Austin Davis Highlights $10 Million in Funding to Help Keep Nonprofit Facilities Safe and Secure

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 23, 2024 – Harrisburg, PA

    Lt. Gov. Austin Davis Highlights $10 Million in Funding to Help Keep Nonprofit Facilities Safe and Secure

    Lt. Gov. Austin Davis visited the LGBT Center of Central Pennsylvania to highlight $10 million in grants that have been awarded to more than 200 nonprofit organizations – including the LGBT Center – to enhance the safety and security of their facilities.

    “Every Pennsylvanian should have the freedom to love who they love, pray how they want to pray and be their authentic selves – free from threats of violence and harassment,” said Davis, who also serves as chair of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). “That’s why the Shapiro-Davis Administration advocated for an increase in funding for nonprofit security grants in this year’s bipartisan state budget. By doubling this grant program, we’ve been able to fund more than 200 organizations in 31 counties, including more than 100 organizations that had never received a grant before, so they can keep their facilities safe and secure and protect the communities they serve.”

    PCCD administers the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program, which has provided $25 million in funding to more than 580 organizations since its inception. On top of that, this latest, seventh round of grants will go to 208 nonprofit organizations, including 102 organizations that had never before received funding through this program.

    Speakers Include:
    Executive Director Amber Roadcap, LGBT Center of Central PA
    Lt. Gov. Austin Davis
    Rep. Patty Kim

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shapiro Administration, PA Office of Attorney General Encourage Participation in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day This Weekend

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 23, 2024 – Harrisburg, PA

    Shapiro Administration, PA Office of Attorney General Encourage Participation in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day This Weekend

    The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), and Department of Aging (PDA) joined officials from the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General to encourage Pennsylvanians to take part in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day initiative this Saturday, October 26.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro Announces $3 Million Investment in Erie County Organic Potato Company to Create Local Jobs and Grow Pennsylvania’s Agricultural Sector

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 23, 2024 – Waterford, PA

    Governor Shapiro Announces $3 Million Investment in Erie County Organic Potato Company to Create Local Jobs and Grow Pennsylvania’s Agricultural Sector

    Governor Josh Shapiro visited start-up company Folkland Foods, located in Waterford, Erie County, to announce a $3 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) investment in the company. This funding will support a significant capital expansion that will enable Folkland’s parent company Troyer, Inc. – the only organic potato supplier on the East Coast – to expand its operations, transition more acreage to organic farming, and begin producing a range of potato products, creating up to 50 new local jobs in the region over the first three years.

    Owned and operated by the Troyer family, who have been a mainstay in northwestern Pennsylvania’s potato farming industry for three generations, Folkland Foods is poised to build on its legacy of agricultural success and pioneering role in organic farming.

    “I’m excited to announce this $3 million investment in Folkland Foods, a company that is leading the way in organic farming and sustainable practices, built on hard work and know-how developed right here in Pennsylvania. This expansion will create 50 new, good-paying jobs and significantly boost the local economy in Erie County, all while reinforcing Pennsylvania’s reputation as a leader in agriculture and food production,” said Governor Shapiro. “My Administration is committed to making targeted investments like this one that benefit our farmers, strengthen rural economies, and ensure Pennsylvania remains at the forefront of agricultural innovation and production for generations to come.”

    List of Speakers:
    Zack Troyer, co-founder of Folkland Foods
    Governor Shapiro
    Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding
    Brian Garlick, Folkland’s Chief Operating Officer

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pennsylvania Gets it Done: Governor Shapiro, GSK Leadership Announce the GlobalBiopharma Company’s Investment of up to $800 Million in Pennsylvania, Expanding itsOperations and Creating Jobs in the Commonwealth

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 24, 2024 – Marietta, PA

    Pennsylvania Gets it Done: Governor Shapiro, GSK Leadership Announce the Global
    Biopharma Company’s Investment of up to $800 Million in Pennsylvania, Expanding its
    Operations and Creating Jobs in the Commonwealth

    Governor Josh Shapiro and GSK leadership announced the global biopharma company’s major investment of up to $800 million in Pennsylvania that will increase its research and development (R&D) and manufacturing footprint at its existing facility in Lancaster County. The Commonwealth is supporting this expansion with a $21 million investment, which will create at least 200 new, high-paying jobs. This is the largest Commonwealth-supported economic development project in Lancaster County history.

    GSK will expand its existing facility at 325 North Bridge Street in Marietta with new facilities to manufacture vaccines and medicines. Currently, one in four Americans are administered a vaccine supplied from the company’s Marietta location. This expansion will double the size and capacity of the site.

    “Pennsylvania is a leader in life sciences – and GSK’s decision to make its largest single investment ever in manufacturing in the United States right here in the Commonwealth is further proof that we are the best state in the nation for business growth and economic development,” said Governor Shapiro. “Our Commonwealth offers the skilled workforce, market access, and innovation infrastructure that biotech and life sciences companies need to thrive. Pennsylvania is getting things done, and my Administration will continue to work with companies like GSK to drive innovation forward and create jobs – and economic opportunity – for people across the Commonwealth.”

    List of Speakers:
    Matteo Leardini
    Governor Shapiro
    Maya Martinez-Davis, President, U.S. GSK
    Secretary Rick Siger

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Moosomin First Nation — Battlefords RCMP seek public assistance locating missing 13-year-old female

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 23, 2024 at approximately 11:20 p.m., Battlefords RCMP received a report of a missing 13-year-old female, Nicole Katcheech.

    Nicole was last seen on October 23, 2024 at approximately 8:00 a.m. on Moosomin First Nation.

    Nicole is described as approximately 5’6″ tall and 170 lbs. She has brown eyes and dark brown – almost black – hair. Nicole was last seen wearing a black zip up sweater with silver details on it, light grey sweatpants, and a black and brown backpack. She also has a scar on her collarbone. A photo of her is attached.

    If you have seen Nicole or know where she is, contact Battlefords RCMP at 310-RCMP (7267). Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco Announces Third Quarter 2024 Operating Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (Bank) today announced its unaudited third quarter 2024 operating results. Net income for the third quarter of 2024 was $102 million, a decrease of $1 million compared with net income of $103 million for the third quarter of 2023.

     “We continue to manage a solid balance sheet, strong liquidity position, and a steadfast commitment to investing in innovative and impactful programs that meet our public mission and expand affordable housing and economic opportunity throughout our district,” said Alanna McCargo, president and chief executive officer of the Bank. “In the third quarter of 2024, we awarded Access to Housing and Economic Assistance for Development (AHEAD) Program grants, which provided $7.3 million in funding to 84 organizations dedicated to capacity building, creating job opportunities, and servicing community needs across Arizona, California, and Nevada. Our Bank will continue to engage with stakeholders to find new ways to move the needle and deliver on our promise to drive new economic opportunities, close homeownership gaps, deliver invaluable technical assistance, and address housing affordability and economic development needs in our region.”

    The $1 million decrease in net income relative to the prior-year period was primarily attributable to a decrease in net interest income of $25 million and an increase in other expense of $10 million, offset by an increase in other income/(loss) of $23 million and a change in the provision for/(reversal of) credit losses of $11 million.

    • The $25 million decrease in net interest income was mainly attributable to lower average balances of advances and short-term investments and higher costs of consolidated obligation bonds and discount notes. The decrease was partially offset by lower average balances of consolidated obligation bonds and discount notes.
    • The $10 million increase in other expense was primarily attributable to the Bank’s increase in charitable “mission-oriented” contributions mainly to fund downpayment assistance grants to middle-income homebuyers (delivered by participating member financial institutions).
    • The $23 million increase in other income/(loss) was primarily driven by an overall improvement in net fair values on the Bank’s financial instruments carried at fair value, partially offset by a net decrease in fair value on interest rate swaps classified as economic hedges.
    • The $11 million change in the provision for/(reversal of) credit losses was related to an improvement in the fair values of certain private label mortgage-backed securities.

    At September 30, 2024, total assets were $83.3 billion, a decrease of $9.5 billion from $92.8 billion at December 31, 2023. The primary driver of reduced assets was a decline in advances, which decreased by $11.8 billion from $61.3 billion at December 31, 2023 to $49.5 billion at September 30, 2024, which was primarily related to maturities of advances totaling $9.7 billion acquired by nonmembers in connection with certain Bank member acquisitions. Investments at September 30, 2024 were $32.6 billion, a net increase of $2.3 billion from $30.3 billion at December 31, 2023, attributable to increases of $1.4 billion in U.S. Treasury securities, $525 million in mortgage-backed securities, and $381 million in short-term investments.

    Community investments continue to be central to the philosophy, function, and operations at the Bank. Following approval by the Bank’s board of directors in the third quarter of 2024, the Bank’s AHEAD Program awarded $7.3 million in economic development grants, an amount of funding that represents an increase of 82% over last year. Now in its 20th year, the AHEAD Program is designed to advance innovative, economic, and community development initiatives that empower underserved communities. The Bank’s AHEAD Program has funded over $32 million in grants over the past two decades, delivered in partnership with member financial institutions.

    As of September 30, 2024, the Bank exceeded all regulatory capital requirements. The Bank exceeded its 4.0% regulatory requirement with a regulatory capital ratio of 8.8% at September 30, 2024. The increase in the regulatory capital ratio from 8.0% at December 31, 2023 mainly resulted from the decrease in total assets during the first nine months of 2024. The Bank also exceeded its risk-based capital requirement of $1.1 billion with $7.3 billion in permanent capital. Total retained earnings increased to $4.4 billion at September 30, 2024, from $4.3 billion at December 31, 2023.

    Today, the Bank’s board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend on the average capital stock outstanding during the third quarter of 2024 at an annualized rate of 8.75%. The quarterly dividend rate is consistent with the Bank’s dividend philosophy of endeavoring to pay a quarterly dividend rate that is equal to or greater than the current market rate for highly rated investments and that is sustainable under current and projected earnings while maintaining appropriate levels of capital. The quarterly dividend will total $65 million, and the Bank expects to pay the dividend on November 12, 2024.

    Financial Highlights
    (Unaudited)
    (Dollars in millions)

    Selected Balance Sheet Items
      at Period End    		 Sep 30, 2024   Dec 31, 2023  
    Total Assets $            83,270   $            92,828  
    Advances                 49,473                   61,335  
    Mortgage Loans Held for Portfolio, Net                      707                        754  
    Investments, Net1                 32,587                   30,294  
    Consolidated Obligations:      
      Bonds                 62,745                   64,297  
      Discount Notes                 11,005                   19,187  
    Mandatorily Redeemable Capital Stock                      465                        706  
    Capital Stock – Class B – Putable                   2,416                     2,450  
    Retained Earnings                   4,446                     4,290  
    Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss)                         47                         (72 )
    Total Capital                   6,909                     6,668  
           
    Selected Other Data at Period End Sep 30, 2024   Dec 31, 2023  
    Regulatory Capital Ratio2   8.80 %   8.02 %
      Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended  
    Selected Operating Results for the Period Sep 30, 2024     Sep 30, 2023   Sep 30, 2024     Sep 30, 2023    
    Net Interest Income $                  146     $                  171   $                432     $                637    
    Provision for/(Reversal of) Credit Losses                         (4 )                             7                         (5 )                          7    
    Other Income/(Loss)                         30                               7                        78                        (15 )  
    Other Expense                         65                             55                      162                        148    
    Affordable Housing Program Assessment                         13                             13                        41                          48    
    Net Income/(Loss) $                  102     $                  103   $                312     $                419    
                     
      Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended  
    Selected Other Data for the Period Sep 30, 2024     Sep 30, 2023   Sep 30, 2024     Sep 30, 2023    
    Net Interest Margin3   0.70   %   0.68 %   0.68   %   0.70   %
    Return on Average Assets   0.48       0.41     0.49       0.46    
    Return on Average Equity   5.88       6.17     6.15       7.69    
    Annualized Dividend Rate4   8.75       7.75     8.75       7.26    
    Average Equity to Average Assets Ratio   8.21       6.63     7.91       5.99    

                   
    1.   Investments consist of federal funds sold, interest-bearing deposits, trading securities, available-for-sale securities, held-to-maturity securities, and securities purchased under agreements to resell.
    2.   The regulatory capital ratio is calculated as regulatory capital divided by total assets. Regulatory capital includes retained earnings, Class B capital stock, and mandatorily redeemable capital stock (which is classified as a liability), but excludes accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss). Total regulatory capital as of September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, was $7.3 billion and  $7.4 billion, respectively.
    3.   Net interest margin is calculated as net interest income (annualized) divided by average interest-earning assets.
    4.   Cash dividends are declared, recorded, and paid during the period, on the average capital stock outstanding during the previous quarter.

    Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco
    The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco is a member-driven cooperative helping local lenders in Arizona, California, and Nevada build strong communities, create opportunity, and change lives for the better. The tools and resources we provide to our member financial institutions–commercial banks, credit unions, industrial loan companies, savings institutions, insurance companies, and community development financial institutions propel homeownership, finance affordable housing, drive economic vitality, and revitalize whole neighborhoods. Together with our members and other partners, we are making the communities we serve more vibrant, equitable, and resilient.

    Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements related to the Bank’s dividend philosophy and dividend rates. These statements are based on our current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof. These statements may use forward-looking terms, such as “endeavoring,” “will,” and “expects,” or their negatives or other variations on these terms. The Bank cautions that by their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk or uncertainty and that actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements or could affect the extent to which a particular objective, projection, estimate, or prediction is realized, including future dividends. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the Risk Factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other periodic and current reports that we may file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as regulatory and accounting rule adjustments or requirements; the application of accounting standards relating to, among other things, certain fair value gains and losses; hedge accounting of derivatives and underlying financial instruments; the fair values of financial instruments; the allowance for credit losses; future operating results; the withdrawal of one or more large members; high inflation and interest rates that may adversely affect our members and their customers; and our ability to pay a quarterly dividend rate that is equal to or greater than similar current rates for highly rated investments. We undertake no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Transocean Ltd. Provides Quarterly Fleet Status Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    STEINHAUSEN, Switzerland, Oct. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Transocean Ltd. (NYSE: RIG) today issued a quarterly Fleet Status Report that provides the current status of, and contract information for, the company’s fleet of offshore drilling rigs.

    This quarter’s report includes the following updates:

    • Deepwater Atlas – Awarded a 365-day contract in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico at a dayrate of $635,000.
    • Deepwater Conqueror – Awarded a 365-day contract in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico at a dayrate of $530,000.
    • Deepwater Invictus – Awarded a 1095-day contract in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico at a dayrate of $485,000.
    • Deepwater Invictus – Awarded two one-well contract extensions in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.
    • Dhirubhai Deepwater KG1 – Awarded a six-well contract in India at a dayrate of $410,000.
    • Transocean Spitsbergen – Customer exercised a three-well option in Norway at a dayrate of $483,000.
    • Transocean Endurance – Customer exercised a one-well option in Australia at a dayrate of $390,000.
    • Transocean Endurance – Customer exercised a five-well option in Australia at a dayrate of $390,000.

    The aggregate incremental backlog associated with these fixtures is approximately $1.3 billion. As of October 24, 2024, the company’s total backlog is approximately $9.3 billion.  

    The report can be accessed on the company’s website: www.deepwater.com.

    About Transocean

    Transocean is a leading international provider of offshore contract drilling services for oil and gas wells. Transocean specializes in technically demanding sectors of the global offshore drilling business with a particular focus on deepwater and harsh environment drilling services and operates the highest specification floating offshore drilling fleet in the world.

    Transocean owns or has partial ownership interests in and operates a fleet of 34 mobile offshore drilling units, consisting of 26 ultra-deepwater floaters and eight harsh environment floaters.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The statements described herein that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements could contain words such as “possible,” “intend,” “will,” “if,” “expect,” or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and assumptions, and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are beyond our control, and many cases, cannot be predicted. As a result, actual results could differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, estimated duration of customer contracts, contract dayrate amounts, future contract commencement dates and locations, planned shipyard projects and other out-of-service time, sales of drilling units, the cost and timing of mobilizations and reactivations, operating hazards and delays, risks associated with international operations, actions by customers and other third parties, the fluctuation of current and future prices of oil and gas, the global and regional supply and demand for oil and gas, the intention to scrap certain drilling rigs, the effects of the spread of and mitigation efforts by governments, businesses and individuals related to contagious illnesses, and other factors, including those and other risks discussed in the company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and in the company’s other filings with the SEC, which are available free of charge on the SEC’s website at: www.sec.gov. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or to persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by reference to these risks and uncertainties. You should not place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of the particular statement. We expressly disclaim any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in our expectations or beliefs with regard to the statement or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any forward-looking statement is based, except as required by law. All non-GAAP financial measure reconciliations to the most comparative GAAP measure are displayed in quantitative schedules on the company’s website at: www.deepwater.com.

    This press release, or referenced documents, do not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and do not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”) or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of Transocean and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of Transocean.

    Analyst Contact:
    Alison Johnson
    +1 713-232-7214

    Media Contact:
    Pam Easton
    +1 713-232-7647

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Stats NZ information release: Subnational population estimates: At 30 June 2024 (2018-base)

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Subnational population estimates: At 30 June 2024 (2018-base) – Information release – 25 October 2024.

    Subnational population estimates give the best available measure of the population, by age and sex, usually living in New Zealand’s 16 regions, 67 territorial authority areas, 21 Auckland local board areas, and other areas.

    Key facts
    In the year ended June 2024, provisional estimates of the population usually living in each area indicate:

    • many areas had slower population growth than in the year ended June 2023, with national population growth at 1.8 percent in 2024, down from 2.5 percent in 2023
    • nationally, net migration (73,300) contributed to population growth more than natural increase (20,300).

    Visit Statistics NZ’s website to read this information release:

     

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from President Joe  Biden on World Polio  Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    The United States is proudly a leader and core strategic partner in the world’s quest to eradicate polio and because of our efforts, the world has a historic window of opportunity to end polio for good. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to secure a polio-free future.
    Through our leadership in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, our sustained commitment to ending polio has resulted in 20 million people walking today who otherwise could have been paralyzed. We have reduced the number of children paralyzed by 99.9 percent and vaccinated over 3 billion children against polio. However, polio persists in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
    If high vaccination rates against polio are not achieved and maintained, including amidst instability, conflict, and misinformation mounting around the world, the risk of polio outbreaks will rise even in places long considered polio-free, like we’ve recently seen in New York, London, and Ukraine as well as in Gaza, where all parties must ensure the safe and effective implementation of the polio vaccination campaign that is urgently needed throughout Gaza.
    In order to achieve the goal of eradicating polio, the world must rally together. Delivering a polio-free world with stronger health systems and communities is not only the right thing to do for humanity, but a smart investment in the health of future generations and our collective global health security. Together, we can make it a reality.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis Statement On Cooper’s Mishandling of Disaster Recovery Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis responded to Governor Roy Cooper’s request for the N.C. General Assembly to cover a $175 million shortfall in the budget of the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency (NCORR) on recovery efforts for Hurricane Matthew (2016) and Hurricane Florence (2018). These funds were originally provided to the State of North Carolina by the federal government as part of disaster assistance packages funded and passed by Congress. 

    For the last six years, Tillis has pressed the Cooper Administration on the slow pace of spending on recovery and rebuilding efforts for Matthew and Florence. As recently as May of this year, Senator Tillis once again pressed NCORR Director Laura Hogshead for answers on the rebuilding process. 

    Nowhere in Hogshead’s response from June 2024 did she indicate that NCORR was facing such a massive shortfall of the funding originally allocated by Congress. Instead, she stated: “NCORR stands prepared to complete the homes of its current applicants and to respond quickly to any future disasters.”

    In 2022, the Office of Inspector General released a report finding that NCORR could not provide reasonable assurance that $2.5 million of the $5.4 million of federal assistance reviewed by the Inspector General was spent properly.   

    In response to the NCORR’s fiscal mismanagement, Senator Thom Tillis issued the following statement: 

    “For the last six years, I have been warning that Governor Cooper and NCORR were dropping the ball on distributing disaster relief to victims. NCORR’s last-second announcement of a staggering $175 million shortfall for Matthew and Florence recovery confirms those concerns were justified. It is scandalous that the Cooper Administration has failed thousands of North Carolina families, many of whom are still living in hotel rooms and still have no relief from storms that hit our state as long as eight years ago. Instead of working to actually fix this problem, it seems the Governor’s office has always been more focused on attacking anyone who drops a hint of criticism over their failure to get assistance to disaster victims. 

    “All this makes it much more difficult for North Carolina’s Congressional leaders to secure needed federal assistance for Helene victims when our colleagues look at the Cooper Administration’s failure to get federal assistance in the hands of Matthew and Florence victims. 

    “The next Governor must turn the page on the systemic incompetence and mismanagement of North Carolina’s disaster rebuilding efforts: the thousands of families who lost their homes to Helene certainly deserve better. While the NCGA is right to provide NCORR with some funding to keep operations running, state and federal leaders need to hear directly from Director Hogshead and Governor Cooper on how this appalling failure occurred on their watch, and there must be serious systematic changes to ensure North Carolina has a disaster office that is able to properly take care of disaster victims.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Join Sanders, Peters, Stabenow and 18 Fellow Senators in Demanding Stellantis Keep Its Promises to Autoworkers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    October 24, 2024

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – In a letter sent yesterday to the automotive giant responsible for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and more, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Gary Peters (D-MI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and 18 of their colleagues in urging Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares to honor the collective bargaining agreement signed last year with the United Auto Workers (UAW) and the promises the company made to strengthen and expand good-paying union jobs in America. The Senators also reinforced the importance of re-opening the idled Stellantis plant in Belvidere.

    “We are writing to express our growing concerns about the failure of Stellantis, under your leadership, to honor the commitments it made to the United Auto Workers (UAW) in last year’s collective bargaining agreement…” wrote the Senators. “We urge Stellantis not to renege on the promises it made to American autoworkers and to provide details on the timelines for these investments.”

    In the contract ratified last year, Stellantis committed to:

    • Make nearly $19 billion in new investments and product commitments in the U.S.;
    • Re-open the plant in Belvidere, Illinois that was “indefinitely idled” last year;
    • Establish a parts and customer care Mega Hub in Belvidere;
    • Continue to manufacture the Dodge Durango in Detroit through 2025; and
    • Manufacture the next generation Dodge Durango in Detroit starting in 2026.

    Instead, Stellantis has taken actions that undermine the commitments made to the UAW and leave “behind thousands of American workers who built the company into the auto giant it is today,” wrote the Senators. These actions may include moving the next generation Dodge Durango out of the U.S. and into “low-cost” countries like Mexico, as well as delaying planned investments to reopen and expand the Belvidere assembly plant.

    This year, Stellantis has spent over $8 billion on stock buybacks and dividends to benefit its wealthy executives and stockholders. During the first six months of this year, Stellantis has generated over $6 billion in profits, making it one of the most profitable auto companies in the world. The company has also benefited from billions of dollars in financial assistance from American taxpayers and the federal government. In July, the Department of Energy announced Stellantis would receive nearly $335 million in federal dollars to support Belvidere Assembly Plant’s conversion to electric vehicle production.

    “Last year, while blue collar auto workers in Belvidere were being laid off indefinitely, you were able to receive a 56 percent pay raise, boosting your total compensation to $39.5 million, which made you the highest paid executive among traditional auto companies,” wrote the Senators. “We believe that if Stellantis can afford to spend over $8 billion this year on stock buybacks and dividends, it can live up to the contractual commitments it made to the UAW. This is especially true given the billions of dollars in financial assistance American taxpayers have spent to support your company and the enormous sacrifices autoworkers have been forced to make over many decades.”

    Joining Duckworth, Durbin, Sanders, Peters and Stabenow on the letter are U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).

    The full letter is available here and below.

    Dear Mr. Tavares:

    We are writing to express our growing concerns about the failure of Stellantis, under your leadership, to honor the commitments it made to the United Auto Workers (UAW) in last year’s collective bargaining agreement.

    In that contract, ratified by UAW members, Stellantis committed to “establish long-term stability and job security” for its workforce. The agreement includes nearly $19 billion in new investment and product commitments in the United States, including promises to:

    • Re-open the plant in Belvidere, Illinois that was “indefinitely idled” last year;
    • Establish a parts and customer care Mega Hub in Belvidere;
    • Continue to manufacture the Dodge Durango in Detroit through 2025;
    • and Manufacture the next generation Dodge Durango in Detroit starting in 2026.

    We are deeply concerned that Stellantis is not keeping the promises it made to strengthen and expand good-paying union jobs in America.

    Specifically, Stellantis is now delaying planned investments to reopen and expand the Belvidere assembly plant, leaving behind thousands of American workers who built the company into the auto giant it is today. We are also concerned with reporting that Stellantis is planning to move production of the next generation Dodge Durango out of the United States, after previously announcing layoffs that threaten the economic security and well-being of thousands of autoworkers. Moreover, Stellantis has stated publicly that it plans to source 80 percent of supply from “low-cost countries” like Mexico. By your own admission, Stellantis’s growth plan hinges on shifting “industrial production into cost competitive countries” like Mexico, where workers are making substandard wages. These actions violate the obligations Stellantis made to the UAW. We urge Stellantis not to renege on the promises it made to American autoworkers and to provide details on the timelines for these investments.

    This year, Stellantis has spent over $8 billion on stock buybacks and dividends to benefit its wealthy executives and stockholders. Last year, while blue collar auto workers in Belvidere were being laid off indefinitely, you were able to receive a 56 percent pay raise boosting your total compensation to $39.5 million, which made you the highest paid executive among traditional auto companies. During the first six months of this year, Stellantis has generated over $6 billion in profits, making it one of the most profitable auto companies in the world.

    We believe that if Stellantis can afford to spend over $8 billion this year on stock buybacks and dividends, it can live up to the contractual commitments it made to the UAW. This is especially true given the billions of dollars in financial assistance American taxpayers have spent to support your company and the enormous sacrifices autoworkers have been forced to make over many decades.

    For example, the Department of Energy announced in July that nearly $335 million in federal dollars would be going to supporting Belvidere Assembly Plant’s conversion to electric vehicle production. With hundreds of millions of dollars of federal support going towards ensuring strong union jobs stay in the U.S., Stellantis must honor the promises it made to UAW workers and the Belvidere community.

    We urge you to deliver on the commitments you made to the UAW in your 2023 national agreement without further delay.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: Subnational population estimates: At 30 June 2024 (2018-base)

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Subnational population estimates: At 30 June 2024 (2018-base) – Information release – 25 October 2024.

    Subnational population estimates give the best available measure of the population, by age and sex, usually living in New Zealand’s 16 regions, 67 territorial authority areas, 21 Auckland local board areas, and other areas.

    Key facts
    In the year ended June 2024, provisional estimates of the population usually living in each area indicate:

    • many areas had slower population growth than in the year ended June 2023, with national population growth at 1.8 percent in 2024, down from 2.5 percent in 2023
    • nationally, net migration (73,300) contributed to population growth more than natural increase (20,300).

    Visit our website to read this information release:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Aged Care – ACA urges government action as future of West Coast palliative care in question

    Source: Aged Care Association

    The Aged Care Association (ACA) is expressing serious concerns about the future of palliative care on the West Coast following comments from palliative care doctor Wendy Pattemore regarding the region’s new Korowai programme. Dr. Pattemore highlighted that while the programme currently focuses on palliative care patients, it may be expanded to include chronic disease patients due to the lack of residential care beds on the Coast.
    The ACA is urging Te Whatu Ora to engage more meaningfully with residential care providers to address these critical gaps and ensure comprehensive palliative care options are available for families in need.
    “Is this a sign that Te Whatu Ora has given up on working with residential care providers on the West Coast to enhance and expand the much-needed provision?” asks ACA Chief Executive Tracey Martin. “While we strongly advocate for more support for palliative care education and services, we are deeply concerned that the system is abdicating its responsibilities to ensure West Coast families have access to the best supports for them and their loved ones at end of life.”
    Martin emphasised the importance of giving families realistic options that consider their physical, mental, and emotional abilities, rather than relying solely on home-based care solutions.
    “The ACA has articulated on a number of occasions the issue of palliative care being absent from key discussions on the Funding and Delivery Review of Aged Care currently being undertaken by Te Whatu Ora. One thing we all know for certain is that 100% of us will eventually die. However, our members are reporting instances around the country where families try to care for their loved ones at home, only to find the physical and emotional pressure too great. These families often turn to our members in desperation, requesting urgent admissions for their loved ones in their final days or even hours. Many of these families then have to add guilt to their grief.”
    Martin stresses that residential care providers must be part of the future design of aged care services, with palliative care integrated as a standard offering, whether in the home, community, or aged residential care settings.
    “We continue to ask to be part of the design of future aged care provision, with palliative care to be a natural inclusion alongside home and community support, and aged residential care,” Martin said.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – Christchurch City Council leads – Luxon government must follow – PSNA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

     

    Following the principled decision of the Christchurch City Council this week to change its procurement policy to exclude companies involved in illegal Israeli settlements, nationwide protests this week will be demanding the government:

     

    • Ban all imports into Aotearoa New Zealand from illegal Israeli settlements
    • End government procurement of goods and services from companies identified by the UN as complicit in the building and maintaining of illegal Israeli settlements
    • Direct the Superfund, ACC and Kiwisaver providers to end investments in the companies involved in illegal Israeli settlements

     

    The Christchurch City Council has shown the way. The Luxon government must follow.

     

    PSNA has asked the government to take these steps – we have had no response for two months.

     

    John Minto

    National Chair

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

     

    Nationwide rallies/marches/MP protests/vigils this week

     

    These are on the PSNA Facebook events page here with the basic details listed below.

     

    North Island
    Opononi – Gathering for Palestine
    Sunday 27 October
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Kerikeri – Rally
    Saturday 26 October
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Whangarei – Rally
    Saturday 26 October
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Auckland – Talk by Vijay Prashad
    Thursday 24 October
    7:00 pm
    Western Springs Garden Community Center
    956 Great North Road, Western Springs
     
    Auckland – Picket
    Friday 25 October
    No Picket this Friday – Labour Weekend
    Next picket Wed 30 October @ 4:00 pm outside the US Consulate
      
    Waiheke – Market Stall – hosted by Stand With Palestine Waiheke!
    Every Saturday
    8:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Ostend Market, Waiheke Island
     
    Auckland – Banners around Tamaki Makaurau
    Every Saturday
    10:00 am
    Text John on 021 899 659 for location
     
    Auckland – Rally
    Saturday 26 October
    2:00 pm
    Te Komititanga – Britomart Square, Tamaki Makaurau
     
    Thames – Vigil to Stop the war on Children
    (Hosted by The Basket – Social and Environmental Justice – Hauraki)
    First Saturday of the month
     
    Tauranga – Flag wave
    Monday 28 – Labour Day
    1:00 am
    Coronation park, Mt Maunganui
     
    Whakatane
    Saturday 26 October
    Rallies are being organised
    Watch this space
     
    Hamilton – Flag Waving for Palestine
    Saturday 26 October
    1:00 pm
    Flynn Park, Hamilton
     
    Raglan
    To be advised
    Watch this space
     
    Cambridge – Rally for Palestine
    Every Saturday
    11:00 am
    Cambridge Town Hall
     
    Rotorua – Rally for Palestine
    Every Thursday
    4:30 pm
    National MP Todd McClays Office – Cnr Amohau and Ranolf St lights, Rotorua
     
    Gisborne – Farmers Market – Vigil to Stop the war on Children
    Every Saturday
    9:30 – 11:30 am
    Gisborne Farmers Market
     
    Napier – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 26 October
    11:30 am
    Marine Parade Soundshell Roundabout
     
    Hastings – Rally for Palestine
    Sunday 27 October
    1:00 pm
    Hastings Town Clock – Hastings CBD
     
    Palmerston North – Rally for Palestine
    Sunday 27 October
    2:00 pm
    The Square, Palmerston North
     
    New Plymouth – Flags on the Bridge
    Friday 25 September
    4:30 pm
    Paynters Ave Bridge, New Plymouth
     
    New Plymouth – March for Gaza
    Saturday 26 October
    1:00 PM
    Huatoki Plaza, Ngamotu, New Plymouth
     
    Whanganui – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 26 October
    11:00 am
    Riverside Market, Whanganui
     
    Carterton – Gathering for Gaza
    Every Tuesday
    12:00 midday
    Memorial Square.
     
    Martinborough – Vigil for Palestine
    Every Wednesday
    11:00 am
    The square at the top of Kitchener St, Martinborough
     
    Masterton – Gathering for Gaza
    Every Sunday
    9:30 am
    Town Hall Lawn, Masterton
     
    Featherston – Gathering for Gaza
    Every Saturday
    11:00 am
    The Squircle (opposite the op shop).
     
    Wellington – Vigil for Palestine (by Aotearoa Healthcare Workers for Palestine)
    Every Friday
    6:00 pm
    In front of Wellington Hospital
    49 Riddiford Street, Newtown, Wellington
     
    Wellington – Flags on the Bridge
    (hosted by the Falastin Tea Collective)
    Every Friday
    7:15 – 8:15 am
    Hill Street bridge Overbridge, Wellington
     
    Wellington – Obela boycott rally
    (hosted by the Falastin Tea Collective)
    Saturday 26 October
    1:00 – 2:00 pm
    Outside Countdown in Newtown, Wellington
    Meeting on the corner of Hanson St and John St
     
    South Island
    Nelson – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 26 October
    10:30 am
    Rocks Road by the beach
     
    Blenheim – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 26 October
    11:00 am
    Blenheim Railway Station
     
    Littleton – Flag Waving for Palestine
    Wednesday 23 October
    4:00 pm
    Corner of Sutton Quay and Norwich Quay, Littleton
     
    Christchurch – Flag Waving for Palestine
    Friday 25 October
    4:00 pm
    Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street, Christchurch
     
    Christchurch – Rally
    Saturday 26 October
    1:00 – 2:00 pm
    Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street, Christchurch
     
    Timaru
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Dunedin – Rally and March
    Saturday 19 October
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Queenstown
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Invercargill – Rally for Palestine
    Sunday 27 October
    1:00 pm
    Wachner place Invercargill.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Report Reveals Historic Surge in Small Business Financing Under Biden-Harris Administration

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON – Today, Vice President Kamala Harris and Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice for America’s more than 34 million small businesses in President Biden’s Cabinet, announced that the SBA delivered a transformative $56 billion to small businesses and disaster-impacted communities in Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24). The FY24 Capital Impact Report released today shows that the Agency increased its annual capital portfolio – which includes startup, growth, and recovery capital, as well as surety bonds – by 7% over Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23). Moreover, for the first time since 2008, the SBA made more than 100,000 financings to small businesses, representing a 22% increase over FY23 and a 50% increase over 2020.

    “Under the Biden-Harris Administration, the SBA has revolutionized its capital access programs, helping finance tens of thousands of small businesses in every corner of this country,” said Administrator Guzman. “As every entrepreneur knows, capital is critical – it’s integral to business owners at all stages of their journey, from startup to growth and resilience. Through loans, investments, and surety bond guarantees, the SBA has helped power the small businesses that have in turn powered America’s unparalleled economic recovery from the COVID-19 crisis. Today, we are proud to share data that reveals how in FY24 the Biden-Harris Administration contributed once again to the historic Small Business Boom which has revitalized Main Streets and innovation hubs across America.”

    The SBA’s FY24 Capital Impact Report shows a marked spike in small dollar loans. This notable increase comes on the heels of the agency’s historic program reforms in late FY23 that improved access to affordable small loans. Specifically, these reforms modernized lending criteria for small loans, welcomed new lenders with expertise on underserved borrowers into the 7(a) program, and made it easier for both lenders and business owners to work with the SBA. The FY24 Capital Impact Report reveals that these reforms contributed to a doubling of loans less than $150,000 since FY20, and a 33% increase since FY23.

    Since 2020, the most dramatic trend in the SBA’s capital programs has been the outsized growth in loans to Black-, Latino-, and women-owned businesses. In FY 2024, across its signature 7(a) and 504 loan programs, the SBA backed:

    • 5,200 loans for $1.5 billion to Black-owned businesses, a tripling of loan count relative to FY20.
    • 9,600 loans for $3.3 billion to Latino-owned businesses, reflecting a loan count 2.5 times greater than in FY20.
    • 15,500 loans for $5.6 billion to majority women-owned businesses, representing doubling in women-owned business participation relative to FY20.

    The FY24 Capital Impact Report also revealed the power of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America Agenda. In 2023 and 2024, construction became the leading industry in the SBA’s 7(a) program, reflecting in part the once-in-a-generation investment in infrastructure and domestic manufacturing since President Biden took office.

    View the complete FY24 Capital Impact report, which includes additional data. For complete data on the SBA’s loan programs visit SBA Office Of Capital Access – Dataset – U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) | Open Data.

    Small businesses can visit SBA’s Lender Match page to be matched with participating SBA Lenders that can provide funding with competitive rates and fees.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration 
    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –